Quote Originally Posted by ronaldrwl View Post
Have you been to Arlington to visit your grandfather's grave? That would be an experience. Bring a box of tissues
I was there in the third grade when he was buried there and had the honor of getting to visit his gravesite ~25 years later (1998). It was an amazing experience. I had only met him a couple of time in my youth. He was a strong man with a powerful presence. My mom idolized him. He served during WWII and Korea. He worked directly for General MacArthur and had some interesting stories. Visiting his grave, followed by the Tomb of the Unknowns was almost overwhelming.

For those that might be interested, here is some information regarding the Tomb Guards. THey are amazingly committed soldiers:
http://www.snopes.com/military/unknown.asp
http://www.arlingtoncemetery.org/cer...tinelsotu.html

Quote Originally Posted by BigBear View Post
I've gotten to play TAPS at Arlington.... barely made it through and I didn't even know the fellow.
While you didn't "know" the person, you know the sacrifice(s) this person made (even if they passed away AFTER their period of service). You KNOW they did it for all of us. Since I was a child I've never been able to lsiten to Taps without getting goosebumps. Since I served, I haven't been able to listen to it without thinking of all of those families whose loved ones will never be coming home - all for me.

I don't know how anyone can listen to Taps without getting emotional.